Owning a dog with a food allergy can have serious implications on your pet’s health and also has the potential to prohibit some of the enjoyable things we enjoy with our furry friends such as long walks, cuddles and indulging them with dog friendly treats. Food allergies in pets are on the rise and those who ride this rocky path with their dogs will say it can be hugely demanding when managing such a condition. So, as National Allergy Week starts on 25^th April, we thought we’d share a few tips on allergies and also why food is often at the root of the problem and also provide some reassurance that issues can be solved.

How do you spot a food allergy ?

Intolerance to food can elicit certain reactions and it’s not just about upset stomachs, although this is of course a major indication. Often the signs are more subtle and at first, it may not be the most obvious connection. It has been shown that intolerance to food be that gluten, fish, wheat or something else (dogs can be allergic to many things just as humans can) can manifest itself in the condition of their skin and coat, their demeanour and zest for life. Approximately 70 percent of the body’s entire immune located centred in the gastrointestinal tract there is little wonder that diet can play such a significant part on your dog’s health and wellbeing.

What should you do if your dog has a food allergy ?

Clearly the only sure-fire way to identify whether your dog does have a specific allergy is by conducting a canine allergy test but you could change your dog’s diet without the expense of this and see if any benefits are reaped. We, and our customers, have found that they often are. Remember that when changing your dog’s diet in anyway this should be done very gradually over a period of weeks.

How can Happy Dog Help your dog?

We have a fantastic range of food to suit a range of allergies and intolerances right from sensitive tummies to intolerance to certain products. Our Buffalo and Ostrich ranges are particularly suited to those pooches that may not enjoy more traditional meats associated with dog food such as Beef, Chicken and Lamb. The Happy Dog team recommend that you obtain suitable veterinary advice should you think your dog’s diet is having a detrimental effect on its health. That said, some dog owners choose to feed their pets on our food merely as a lifestyle choice and generally reap the rewards of doing so. Remember that we are here to offer advice and guidance where appropriate to help you make the right choice. The Happy Dog Team